After a decade-long production, current-generation Colorado is about to be replaced. The new model is coming for the next year and from what we know so far, it will bring a lot o novelties. We are about to see a completely new design, even though the platform will remain the same (but significantly updated). We will see new styling, new interior design and a new powertrain. Also, we count on the new version of the pickup’s most off-road capable version, which will come as the 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2.
This model will also be based on the new design, but we are pretty sure that the company will take the same approach as it did with the outgoing model. Compared to standard models, which one will come with all kinds of upgrades, particularly in terms of mechanics. Visual updates are coming as well, while we are also about to see the new powertrain.
The all-new 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 should hit the market sometime in the last quarter of the year.
2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 will receive a complete overhaul, just like the standard models. This redesign will bring a lot of novelties, even though the platform will remain the same. We are talking about the familiar 31XX platform, which will get a significant update for this occasion, in order to provide a better driving experience.
In the case of ZR2, we expect to see typical updates, which characterize the ongoing model as well. These updates are mostly about off-road upgrades and some of the first things that come to mind are off-road suspension with off-road shocks, a two-speed transfer case, a transfer case shield, driver-selectable full-locking front and rear differentials, and off-road rocker protection. Also, it’s worth mentioning that this will be the only model to feature a standard four-wheel drive.
Exterior
Naturally, the upcoming redesign will bring a completely new styling. The test mule still wears a camouflage, so we can’t talk about details. On the other hand, we may presume that the 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 will come with all kinds of exclusive styling details, which will accentuate the model’s off-road nature.
This refers to things like different bumpers, exclusive wheels, exclusive color options, blacked exterior trim etc. The current model is available in two layouts, either with an Extended Cab or Crew Cab with short bed. A version with Crew Cab and a long bed isn’t available and we don’t believe it will be in the next generation either.
Interior
The upcoming redesign will also bring a completely new cabin design and we have no doubt these changes will be applied to the 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 as well. The expectations are big, especially if we consider that the outgoing model doesn’t look impressive from the inside at all. It features subpar quality, while you can also notice a lack of modern tech features. The new model should come with all these things, as well as with significantly improved build quality and materials.
Naturally, the ZR2 will come with some exclusive features, such as upholstery. For example, the current model comes with black leather, so we may expect something similar from the new model as well. Furthermore, we may see some exclusive materials, some stitching, badges, etc.
2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Engine
The next generation will come with a new powertrain and from what we know so far, all three of the current engines will be replaced with the new 2.7-liter turbo-four unit, with a max output of 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque. The new engine will come in pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which will send power to all four wheels.
2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 sometime in the last quarter of the year, with a starting price of around 45.000 dollars. Key competitors will be models like Ford Ranger Raptor, Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro etc.